What does DiDi's barrier-free driver mean?
2 Answers
DiDi's launch of "Barrier-Free Ride" is a project jointly initiated by DiDi and the United Nations Development Programme called "United Nations Barrier-Free Travel". On September 25, 2015, 193 UN member states formally adopted 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which outline a blueprint for achieving a future of peace, prosperity, dignity, and opportunity for all people worldwide. The UN believes that to achieve this goal, it is essential to ensure equal participation of all persons with disabilities and bring about effective change for them. Below is additional information: 1. DiDi driver background checks: Verification of three certificates to authenticate the applicant's ID card, driver's license, and vehicle license. Criminal record screening—applicants who fail the criminal record screening system will not be admitted. Detention does not count as a criminal record, and a no-criminal-record certificate can be issued. 2. Requirements to join DiDi: a. Own a locally licensed vehicle (the name on the vehicle license does not have to be your own). b. The vehicle must be less than 8 years old. c. Hold a C1 or higher driver's license with at least 3 years of driving experience.
As a frequent user of DiDi, I once helped a friend book a ride and only then understood what DiDi's accessible drivers mean. Simply put, these are drivers provided by the DiDi platform specifically for passengers with disabilities or special needs. Most of the vehicles driven by these drivers are modified, such as having wheelchair ramps and securing equipment to facilitate boarding and alighting for people with mobility difficulties. That time when my friend, who uses a wheelchair, opted for this service, the driver was very professional, even helping to push the wheelchair and secure the safety straps. The whole process went smoothly. DiDi introduced this mainly as a social responsibility initiative to ensure fair mobility for everyone. When booking in the app, you can select the type of special need, and the system will automatically match you with an accessible driver. The user experience is excellent—no worries about being refused service, which reduces a lot of hassle. I think this service should be more widespread, encouraging more drivers to join and serve the community.